Five Questions With Ronnie Tomlinson

As the CEO of perhaps one of the most popular PR firms, Destine Media, Ronnie Tomlinson has helped a number of dancehall and reggae artistes establish themselves on both the local and international circuits.

She has been the ‘wind beneath the wings’ of many entertainers, including Jahmiel and Tarrus Riley, thrusting them into the spotlight but staying out of the limelight herself.

Small in stature but powerful in her field, this dynamic, multitalented woman has been a key part of the local music scene for more than two decades. Aside from her work in the industry, very little is known about the effervescent personality that is Ronnie Tomlinson. This week’s Five Questions With is hoping to change all that, as we give you an insight into the woman who has grown into a public relations force.

On an average day, you are very busy but especially now with Buju Banton’s ‘Long Walk to Freedom Tour’. How do you relax?

Relaxing is waking up between 5 a.m. and 5:15 and praying and then whispering all the things I am thankful for. Working with such high-in-demand clients, you can easily become overwhelmed and feel as if you are not accomplishing much, especially when the to-do lists seem to never get shorter.

What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?

I absolutely love soca music!

What’s one thing you have accomplished throughout your career that you are most proud of?

Music and events was something my parents did to either get through the day or bring people together. Music was always a source of happiness or the solution to expressing how you feel. Growing up, I remember writing out lyrics to songs and performing them, and it took me to a place of joy, or in some cases, thought-provoking places when I would listen to a Buju, a Sizzla, or a Bob [Marley]. The list can go on. The fact that I get to do what I love every day is very satisfying. I can’t pick one specific moment because the entire journey has just been amazing.

What do you love most about Jamaica?

I love the creativity in everything we do, and I mean EVERYTHING! It’s just never normal with us!

Are you satisfied with the growth of the local music industry, and what, if anything, do you think needs to change?

I am pleased with the artistes and the initiatives they are taking. They are going for what they want and trying to carve out a career for themselves.

I would love to see more genuine support for talent on the local scene because there’s so much here. Our artistes are capable of doing so many great things. They just need the support.